Award Winner-Louise Horton, City of Bartlett

West TN Excellence in Risk Management Award Winner - Louise Horton, Health and Safety Officer, City of Bartlett

The City of Bartlett in Shelby County has a population of approximately 60,000 citizens. The city provides EMS, fire, parks and recreation, water and sewer services, and also administers the Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center, Bartlett Senior Center, community and rec centers, and municipal school district. Bartlett is branded as a “Great place to live, work, raise a family and retire,” and was named one of Tennessee’s safest cities in 2016 and 2018.

As Bartlett’s Health & Safety Officer, Louise Horton works hand in hand with each of the city’s departments as they provide services to Bartlett’s citizens. She joined the Bartlett team in March 2016 after working with Shelby County for more than 28 years. Louise is responsible for administering the occupational health and safety programs for both the city and the city schools to ensure compliance with TOSHA and other regulatory requirements. She develops and maintains safety programs and plans as required by TOSHA, responds to TOSHA issues, and is responsible for the city’s and schools’ property and casualty insurance programs. This includes maintaining workers’ compensation, liability and property claim files, pursuing subrogation on appropriate claims, and providing risk management advice and assistance to city departments.

She also maintains a close relationship with Public Entity Partners’ underwriting, claims, member services and loss control departments, and updates city administration on insurance items. Her attention to detail has led to the city’s growth in safety and risk management.

Louise recently re-implemented fire drills at City Hall for the first time in many years. She conducts regular property and safety inspections, handles liability concerns throughout the city, and ensures improvements and changes are made when warranted. She also conducts monthly safety meetings with department heads, and stays up to date on industry trends, statutes and laws pertaining to safety, workers’ compensation and fire safety.

She has completed the Risk Management for Public Entities (RMPE) and Certified Insurance Counselor designations, along with agent licensing for property and casualty, life and health. Her dedication to professional development has served the city of Bartlett well, and she is known for her attention to detail and understanding of coverages.

Louise has worked to implement safety tips and training to employees through Public Entity Partners’ training videos and articles. She also served as the Memphis Risk Management Society (RIMS) chapter president and the president of Memphis Insurance Professionals. She has been involved with Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) since 1988 and completed the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) Institute.

Louise Horton, Health & Safety Officer for the City of Bartlett, is recognized for Excellence in Risk Management for her longstanding commitment to the risk management field.